New housing for Montreal men in situations of homelessness

A new 54-studio building for men in vulnerable situations or homelessness, was inaugurated in Montreal on Friday – called Pavillon Robert-Lemaire.

Located on Atateken in the Ville-Marie borough, these new units have already been welcoming vulnerable men – who are sufficiently autonomous to live in the community, with reduced supervision – since Dec. 1.

The building is owned by Société d’habitation et de développement de Montréal (SHDM) and managed by the Maison du Père.

“It’s the gift of a home to men who will be able to live there in dignity and security, without fear of tomorrow,” explained Jaëlle Begarin, President and CEO, Maison du Père.

“This safe, modern living environment, adapted to tenants’ needs, will benefit from the presence of daytime social workers. Designed around an interior courtyard with an independent entrance for each studio, this building will enable residents to develop their autonomy, while benefiting from social support and a community room for socializing,” explained a press release.

This $13-million project was made possible with the support of the City of Montreal and a financial contribution of nearly $5 million from the Government of Canada via the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC), as well as SHDM’s own funds, which invested more than $5 million.

In addition, thanks to a grant from the Major Renovations Program, the City of Montreal contributed a further $2.4 million.

The Quebec government is allocating 54 rent supplements, meaning residents will only need to pay 25 per cent of their income towards the housing.

“This achievement would not have been possible without the necessary collaboration between various partners, enabling 54 men in precarious or homeless situations to sign a lease for the first time, and to benefit from the support of the Maison du Père,” said Sophie Rousseau-Loiselle, SHDM General Manager.

“Accelerating the construction of social housing is essential to providing a sustainable response to the housing crisis and supporting vulnerable people. The Pavillon Robert-Lemaire will provide a home for 54 men at risk of homelessness and struggling with mental health issues. These complex issues require tailored support, and we applaud the involvement of all our government and community partners in making this project a reality,” added Montreal Mayor  Valérie Plante.

“We are at a crucial moment in our fight against homelessness. We need to turn the tide. The action plan is clear, we just need to implement it in every region. Social and affordable housing is an integral part of this plan, and it’s through projects like today’s that we’ll be able to help people experiencing homelessness move towards self-sufficiency,” said Lionel Carmant, Quebec Minister responsible for Social Services.